Exploring the impact of smoking this Stoptober

Smoking-related illnesses are among the leading causes of preventable death in the UK. It cost the NHS around £1.9 billion annually, while local authorities spend about £1.2 billion on social care for smoking-related conditions. Beyond healthcare, smoking reduces workforce productivity, costing England £17.3 billion each year due to illness, lost wages, and premature death. 

For those in care settings, smoking exacerbates health challenges, leading to increased hospital admissions and long-term care needs. This creates pressure on the healthcare system and the care industry as a whole, diverting resources that could be better used elsewhere.

While most people are aware of the health risks, a lesser-known consequence of smoking and vaping is their environmental impact. Cigarette butts are one of the most commonly littered items in the UK, contributing to plastic waste and releasing harmful chemicals into the environment.

Vaping, often seen as a safer alternative to smoking, brings its own challenges. E-cigarettes and vaping devices contain lithium-ion batteries and hazardous chemicals, which contribute to electronic waste when not disposed of properly. As we support individuals to lead healthier lives, it’s equally important to consider the environmental sustainability of our choices.

This Stoptober we understand that quitting is a deeply personal choice however, we also recognise that encouraging our communities to consider quitting can significantly improve their health and wellbeing. 

Free resources like NHS smoking cessation services can be very helpful, but it’s often the ongoing support from family, peers, carers and communities that can make the biggest difference. 

We believe in supporting people to live their healthiest, most fulfilling lives. By encouraging our communities to quit smoking—and by setting a positive example—we can help reduce the burden on our healthcare systems, improve individual health outcomes, and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Stop smoking resources: 

Better Health Stoptober
NHS stop smoking